Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment option for various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, and OCD. TMS works by using magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, which can help improve symptoms in individuals with these disorders. There are different types of TMS, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. This blog will explore the different types of TMS and their differences.
- Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS): Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is the most common form of TMS. It involves delivering a series of magnetic pulses to a specific area of the brain at regular intervals. The number of pulses, frequency, and intensity can be adjusted to suit the individual’s needs. rTMS can be used to treat depression, anxiety, OCD, and other disorders.
- Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS): Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) is a newer form of TMS that uses a series of rapid magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain. TBS can be delivered in two forms: intermittent TBS (iTBS) and continuous TBS (cTBS). iTBS involves a series of pulses delivered in bursts, while cTBS involves a continuous stream of pulses. TBS has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression and other disorders.
- Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (dTMS): Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (dTMS) is a form of TMS that uses a specially designed helmet to deliver magnetic pulses to a larger area of the brain. dTMS is typically used to treat depression and has been shown to be effective in improving symptoms in individuals who have not responded to other forms of treatment.
- Magnetic Seizure Therapy (MST): Magnetic Seizure Therapy (MST) is a form of TMS that uses a higher frequency of magnetic pulses to induce a seizure in the brain. MST is still in the early stages of development and is currently being studied as a potential treatment for severe depression.
- Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS): Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a form of TMS that uses a low-level electrical current to stimulate the brain. Unlike other forms of TMS, tDCS does not use magnetic fields. tDCS can be used to treat depression, anxiety, and other disorders.
There are different types of TMS, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. At the Center for Integrative Psychiatry, we believe in providing our patients with the latest treatment options, and TMS is just one of the many options we offer. If you or a loved one is struggling with a mental health disorder, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule a consultation. Stay tuned for our next blog, where we will discuss what to expect during a TMS session.
Sources:
- Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology. (2021). Types of TMS. Retrieved from
- American Psychiatric Association. (2010). The Practice of Electroconvulsive Therapy: Recommendations for Treatment, Training, and Privileging (2nd ed.). American Psychiatric Association.
- Rossi, S., Hallett, M., Rossini, P. M., & Pascual-Leone, A. (2011). Safety, ethical considerations, and application guidelines for the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation in clinical practice and research. Clinical Neurophysiology, 120(12), 2008-2039. doi:10.1016/j.clinph.2011.08.001
- Berlim, M. T., & Van den Eynde, F. (2014). Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for treatment-resistant depression: a review and meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 75(5), 477-489. doi:10.4088/JCP.13r08815
- Lisanby, S. H., Gutman, D., Luber, B., Schroeder, C., & Sackeim, H. A. (2001). Sham TMS: intracerebral measurement of the induced electrical field and the induction of motor-evoked potentials. Biological Psychiatry, 49(5), 460-463. doi:10.1016/S0006-3223(00)01071-7
- Berlim, M. T., Neufeld, N. H., Van den Eynde, F., & Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Trial Group. (2013). Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): an exploratory meta-analysis of randomized and sham-controlled trials. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 47(8), 999-1006. doi:10.1016/j.jpsychires.2013.03.022
